Experience with laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy for morbid versus super morbid obesity.

Background: We evaluated the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) for super morbid obesity in patients with an initial body mass index (BMI) of <50 or > or =50.

Methods: Between October 2005 and January 2008, we performed LSG in 30 patients. There were 20 males and 10 females with a mean age of 38 years.

Has laparoscopic bariatric surgery been accepted in Japan? The experience of a single surgeon.

Background: Obesity is steadily increasing in Asia due to factors such as a lack of exercise, adoption of a more Western diet, changing lifestyles, environments, or stresses. Even in Japan, this tendency is notable, and metabolic syndrome has become widely recognized. However, bariatric surgery is still uncommon in Japan.

Utility of divided omentum for preventing complications associated with laparoscopic gastric bypass.

Background: Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass has emerged as a standard surgical treatment for morbid obesity. However, prevention of postoperative complications associated with bariatric surgery is an important consideration.

Methods: To reduce postoperative complications and achieve adequate body weight loss, we introduce a simple procedure using a divided omentum during laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.